Sophie Tebbetts, FoodCycle’s CEO has announced that she will be leaving FoodCycle at the end of May. Sophie has been at FoodCycle for a decade, joining in 2016, when there were just 26 community meals in operation.
Joining as Head of Programmes and then taking on the role of CEO, Sophie has been instrumental in getting FoodCycle to where it is today. Our community meals now run in 90 locations across England and Wales, serving an average of 3,500 people each week.
Sophie’s key successes include introducing a volunteer management and booking system, pivoting to a delivery service during the COVID pandemic, launching services into a brand-new country (Wales) and creating the concept of the school community meals programme. During her time at FoodCycle, Sophie also won ‘Supporting Leader of the Year’ at the Third Sector Awards.
We asked Sophie to share some of her highlights:
What’s been the best thing about working at FoodCycle?
Without questions it’s the people. From our incredible volunteers and dedicated staff to the guests who join us each week, FoodCycle is built on human connection. I’ve been continually inspired by the compassion, creativity, and commitment I see across the organisation. There’s something very powerful about sitting down and sharing a meal with others it breaks down barriers and reminds us of what really matters. Being part of a community that leads with kindness and purpose has been a genuine privilege. And something I will always take with me.
What’s been your greatest achievement at FoodCycle?
I’m most proud of how we’ve grown our reach and impact while staying true to our mission and local community feel. Together, we’ve expanded into new communities, strengthened partnerships, and increased the number of meals and moments of connection we provide every week. But beyond the numbers, it’s about building a sustainable model that not only tackles food surplus and loneliness but does so in a way that empowers people. Being able to facilitate volunteers and staff to create trusted, welcoming spaces in so many communities, championing creativity and good food is something that I will always be super proud of.
What will you miss most about FoodCycle?
I’ll miss the sense of togetherness that runs through everything we do. Whether it’s visiting a community meal, meeting volunteers, or hearing stories from guests, there’s a warmth and authenticity that’s hard to put into words. What FoodCycle does is tangible and simple. FoodCycle has a unique ability to bring people together from all walks of life, and that spirit is incredibly special. I’ll also deeply miss the team. Working alongside such passionate, smart and values-driven people has been endlessly energising and motivating to me, and I look forward to watching all the amazing things that I know they will continue to deliver.
Mary McGrath, FoodCycle’s Chair of Trustees said: “Sophie has played a huge role in FoodCycle’s success and even through some of the more challenging times, she always has a smile on her face. I know she will be missed by both the staff and volunteer teams and I want to thank her for her dedication to the charity over the past ten years, we all wish her the very best in her next venture.”
The Board of Trustees have appointed Mark Game as FoodCycle’s new CEO and he will join the charity in mid-April for a handover period. Mark has worked in community impact and food redistribution for more than 25 years, founded the charity, The Bread and Butter Thing and is a former Trustee of FoodCycle.
